In a world where honor is everything and magic is a divine gift, love becomes the most dangerous force of all. Yoshi, the son of the Daimyo of Anzu Han, has always struggled to find his place. With the weight of his family’s legacy on his shoulders, he trains tirelessly with his best friend, Kaneko, whose sharp wit and undeniable charm stir emotions Yoshi doesn’t fully understand. But when an unexpected storm brings an Imperial ship bearing a golden banner to their shores, Yoshi’s world is upended.
The Emperor’s arrival is more than a mere visit. Whispers of rebellion stir in the shadows, ancient forces awaken, and the gods seem restless. Thrust into the heart of political intrigue and a brewing war, Yoshi must confront his insecurities and navigate the treacherous waters of courtly deception. Amid the chaos, his bond with Kaneko deepens into something far more than friendship—a connection that might cost them everything.
‘Yoshi’ marks the thrilling start of a new series by, Casey Morales. This epic novel transports readers to a meticulously crafted world inspired by ancient Asian cultures, presenting thoughtfully researched history and fiction in a beautifully balanced manner.
The story of Yoshi is not just a fictional tale but an exhilarating journey that explores themes of honor, courage, and the rich tapestry of cultural heritage. Casey Morales’s dedication to authenticity is evident on every page, allowing readers to immerse themselves in an era where every detail, from the character’s attire to their customs, is steeped in historical context. This depth adds an enriching layer to the story, distinguishing it from typical fantasy offerings.
The characters are well defined, as is usual with this writer’s work. Yoshi and Kaneko are two boys who have just passed the test of adulthood through five ritual trials, and at the same time they realize that they are and have always been in love with each other. With all this going on in their lives, their village is invaded and destroyed by pirates working with other hostile actors to gain control of all the provinces. Yoshi being next in line to rule, is swept away by his uncle, the Master Shogun, to a safe place while Kaneko, a fisherman’s son, is kidnapped to be sold as a slave by pirates.
If this first novel is any indication, you can expect Casey Morales to expand this world with more exciting, emotional installments, just as he did with his previous work, ‘Of Crowns & Quills’ His ability to draw readers into vast and engaging narratives will undoubtedly make ‘Yoshi’ a cornerstone of the series, captivating both new and returning fans of his writing.
About The Author
Casey Morales is an LGBT storyteller and the author of multiple bestselling MM romance novels. Born in the Southern United States, Casey is an avid tennis player, aspiring chef, dog lover, and ravenous consumer of gummy bears.
Read My Review of Book Two: An Archer’s Destiny
Book Three: An Archer’s Reckoning
Of Crowns & Quills Conclusion
